Airway obstructive diseases in older adults: from detection to treatment

J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Oct;126(4):702-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.08.022.

Abstract

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease occur commonly and may overlap among older adults. Smoking, air pollution, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness are the main risk factors. The treatment of these diseases in older adults does not differ from the available guidelines but may be complicated by the presence of comorbidities. Smoking cessation is essential for smokers, and pulmonary rehabilitation must be considered regardless of the age of the patient.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Air Pollution / adverse effects
  • Asthma* / diagnosis
  • Asthma* / epidemiology
  • Asthma* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / epidemiology
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / therapy
  • Risk Factors
  • Smoking / adverse effects